In the Fall of 2019, fires erupted in New South Wales, Australia. Over 25 million
acres of land burned. People were forced to evacuate to beaches to find shelter.
It is estimated more than 1 billion animals lost their lives in the fires.
Duvall Funk, a University School 7th grader, read about the animals and became very concerned about their safety. Duvall has
a unique pet of his own with an Australian heritage: a sugar glider named DaVinci.
The close connection between his pet and DaVinci’s wild relatives made the tragedy
of the animals’ lives very real to Duvall He did research on the internet to find
a way to help.
Duvall found a group called WIRES Rescue who has been rescuing and caring for wildlife in Australia for over 35 years. While
it is not unusual for students to become moved by the plight of others on our planet,
it is definitely special when a 7th grader plans and follows through on a way to help those in danger. We are proud
of you Duvall and your big heart.